Five Thompson Rivers University School of Trades and Technology students have won national awards, including two golds, for demonstrating the best talent in their skilled trades.
Hugo Heyes garnered gold in the plumbing category, while Nolan Ilic and Cole Allan won gold and bronze medals, respectively, for their welding expertise. Matthew Lavigne (post-secondary level) and Logan Jones (secondary level) each snared silver meals for their carpentry skills.
The awards were given out at the 2023 Skills Canada National Competition in Winnipeg in late May.
The Skills Canada National Competition is the only multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in Canada. Each year, more than 500 competitors from across the country compete for the title of national champion in more than 40 skill areas.
“Hard work pays off,” TRU welding instructor Larry Franzen said. “To get to the national level takes dedication and a drive to overcome obstacles.”
“Our plumber Hugo, and all the other TRU competitors did amazingly well,” said plumbing instructor Audrey Curran. “Anyone brave enough to put themselves out there for these competitions should be very proud of themselves.”
Skills Canada CEO Shaun Thorson said the national competition encourages Canadian youth to discover skilled trade and technology careers.
“It also allows us to raise awareness of these important and lucrative careers to our future skilled workforce,” Thorson said.
